Guard Brian Waters’ season hasn’t officially been declared over, but the finality of it could come Saturday.

That’s when the Dallas Cowboys need to set their roster for Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings, and it seems inevitable that Waters will go on season-ending injured reserve, something executive vice president Stephen Jones alluded to Friday afternoon.

Waters started the past five games for the Cowboys before suffering three injuries in Sunday’s 31-30 loss to the Lions in Detroit. Waters originally injured his knee, and then had rib and triceps injuries occur when he returned.

The triceps injury proved to be the most severe and will require surgery at some point. The Cowboys have given Waters time to explore his options to see if he could somehow play, but it’s unlikely there is a realistic solution, and his roster spot is needed.

There is a shortage of cornerbacks right now and Waters’ spot is expected to go to Micah Pellerin, a practice-squad player who is set to make his NFL debut Sunday.

For the 36-year-old Waters, it could mark the end of an impressive 13-year career. The North Texas product went from an undrafted rookie free agent to six-time Pro Bowl offensive lineman.

The longtime Kansas City Chief sat out the 2012 season before agreeing to a $1.5 million contract with another $1.5 million in incentives with the Cowboys on Sept. 4.

“He’s a pro,” Jones said. “He didn’t come back to get the proverbial check. I think he really came back to compete and make a difference, and he’s made a huge difference for us.… Obviously, we’re glad we signed him. Very unfortunate what’s happened to him.”